Wednesday, April 18, 2012

JENNIFER COTTREAU | HANDCRAFTED JEWELLERY & ACCESSORIES

Canada’s Old Quebec City is the only city in the country
protected by walls.

Alongside modern
amenities like shopping areas and cafeterias, the city holds incredible
attractions including the Breakneck Stairs; a wooden staircase built in the 17th
century. Canada is also home to Jennifer Cottreau.
Launched in December 2009 the subdued aesthetic of
Cottreau’s self-titled jewelry brand is reminiscent of American designer
Madelaine Mayer’s brand MRMR Designs.

The demure precious and semi-precious gemstones she
implements in charm bracelets, gemstone pendants and gemstone earrings are
cloudy shades of green, grey, blue and lilac.

They evoke a foggy horizon over the ocean which comes as no
surprise being that several of her collections follow a theme of nature and
specifically bodies of water. The
jeweler’s Harbourfront, Seas of Atlas and Ocean Spirits Collections are
inspired by gulfs, oceans and seas.

“My inspirations are quite broad and come from my love of nature,
my background in art and design, and my admiration of fashion and beauty. As a result, each collection tells a story
and has a distinct personality. The
jewelry I create is romantic in thought and sophisticated by design.”

14-Karat Gold Fill Mesh Rondelle Earrings

In my opinion, many designs within separate collections are
similar with linear tones and shadings so pieces can be easily mixed, matched
and layered. These pieces also make for
great bridal and bridesmaid jewelry or every day wear.

“What I love about jewelry is its versatility and
timelessness. No matter what style of
jewelry you like it has the ability to express individuality. You can change your mood and the mood of your
outfit; create balance or add character to classic pieces in your wardrobe.

I try to make my designs versatile so that they are
flattening to any figure and can be dressed up or down. I want everyone who wears my pieces to look
and feel stunning.”

Sterling Silver Dance of Two SpiritsBracelet with Pearl and Onyx

For more on Cottreau's designer jewelry be sure to view her Facebook page.